Mark’s Gospel tells us that Jesus is God’s final answer to the plea of Job. Paul tells us that Jesus is, in fact, the full recompense for his efforts in ministry. It is to the unfolding truth of Jesus’ identity and his power that the people are drawn, whether to a doorway or to a place in the roof through which the afflicted might be lowered into his presence. It is to the Gospel of Jesus’ saving power that Paul gives witness, made truly free by Jesus, but free to become weak for the weak, a slave for those who are held captive, all things for all that they might be saved in the One who has come to save us.
I am thinking of the swell of the waves at the ocean’s meeting with the shore. Some are not impressed and so never go there. Some are impressed with the view, and find it inspiring to remain at the beach or water’s edge, somewhat unsure or even fearful of taking the plunge. Others of us long for the weather to be such that we can wade in and see and feel the power of the water and waves to lift and carry us. On a truly beautiful day, crowds will gather to do this very thing. They become part of the exhilarating experience, their movement, their laughter, even the shouts and squeals of delighted children!
This is not unlike the doorway at or within which Jesus stands to greet and welcome us. Some will never grasp the value of drawing near, and some will simply find the prospect too unsettling or fearful. Our witness to the Gospel prays that more and more of us will be drawn to him who lifts and carries us with grace. We pray that the Season of Lent that is just around the corner will be a time of intensified searching and proclaiming, of finding and receiving, of offering and sharing the One who is God’s final answer to our every plea!
Fr. Tom